What principle should be emphasized about oxygen therapy administration to a newly licensed nurse?

The emphasis on the maximum flow rate of 6 L/min when using a nasal cannula for oxygen therapy is critical for newly licensed nurses to understand. This flow rate is established based on the typical oxygen delivery capabilities of a nasal cannula, which allows for the delivery of low to moderate concentrations of oxygen. Exceeding this flow rate can lead to discomfort and complications such as drying out the nasal mucosa, causing irritation or bleeding.

Maintaining the flow rate at or below 6 L/min also ensures that the patient can effectively inhale the oxygen delivered while minimizing the risk of rebreathing carbon dioxide and facilitating adequate oxygen levels without overwhelming the patient. This principle is particularly relevant in managing patients who require supplemental oxygen for conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), where careful monitoring of oxygen delivery is essential to avoid respiratory drive suppression.

Understanding the appropriate flow rate is part of the foundational knowledge for nurses responsible for administering oxygen therapy and is critical for safe patient care.